Residents Mingle With Police, Fire Personnel on 'Night Out'

Joining in a tradition that has lasted in local communities for 31 years, residents of Menifee got a close-up look at the services provided by police and fire personnel Saturday during National Night Out at Wheatfield Park.

The event is designed to make residents more familiar with the public safety services in their community. Adults and children alike had the opportunity to meet police office, firefighters and other rescue personnel, as well as check out the equipment used.

Children climbed behind the wheel of firetrucks, petted horses used in mounted police units and even tried out underwater breathing apparatus while adults chatted with those charged with keeping the community safe.

The event was sponsored by the cities of Menifee, Perris and Canyon Lake -- communities covered by the local station of the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, headed by Chief Mike Judge.

"What you've seen today ... are the resources we have at our fingertips to ensure your public safety," Judge said to the crowd, which was not deterred by occasional rain showers.

Menifee city officials in attendance included Mayor Scott Mann and council member John Denver.

"It's about sharing with the community what law enforcement's all about," Mann said. "Sharing with the community and volunteers, showing the young people there are job opportunities in law enforcement ... it spreads the idea that if we all work together, we can reduce crime."

From left: Menifee Council Member John Denver, Perris Mayor Daryl Busch, Canyon Lake Council Member Mary Craton, Menifee Mayor Scott Mann, Police Chief Mike Judge, Canyon Lake Mayor Randy Bonner.